York Student Government Senators Making an Impact as CUNY USS Representatives

Two York Student Government (YSG) Senators are also serving as representatives on the University Student Senate (USS), advocating for their York and CUNY peers and colleges. 

^{USS Senators Akkeem Polack and Tatiana Mclaren}

Tatiana Alexis Mclaren and Akkeem Polack, who began their work on the USS last year as voting members, are now part of the steering committee team. Mclaren, a senior majoring in Chemistry with a focus on Biochemistry, has been elected as USS vice chair for Disability Affairs, representing all 25 CUNY campuses, and Polack as vice chair for Legislative Affairs.

Originally from Texas, Mclaren moved to New York City two and a half years ago, bringing with her a passion for advocacy and a commitment to academic excellence. An active member of YSG for nearly two years, Mclaren currently serves as a USS delegate and plans to pursue a PhD in biochemistry after graduating from York next spring. She emphasizes that advocacy is deeply personal, driven by her own experiences. As a student with a "hidden disability," Mclaren has overcome significant challenges, and her determination to succeed has been a key motivator in her desire to work with children with disabilities. 

Mclaren credits much of her success to her mentors in the Chemistry department, including Drs. Ruel Desamero and Adam Profit, whom she describes as outstanding mentors, researchers, and teachers. She praises the department for its focus on student success and research opportunities, adding, "York College has one of the best Chemistry departments in CUNY." 

For the past two and a half years, Mclaren has worked closely with children with developmental disabilities, gaining a deep understanding of their needs and challenges. She relates personally to these struggles, having navigated ADHD and battled depression herself.  

"I empathize with individuals with disabilities and recognize the importance of accommodations, resources, and respect," she says. This personal connection drives her advocacy work on USS where she is committed to implementing changes that help all students succeed, regardless of their challenges. 

Akkeem Polack, an international student from Jamaica, brings a positive attitude and a commitment to making a difference at CUNY. As vice chair for Legislative Affairs, he focuses on making CUNY a more affordable, accessible, and supportive institution for students across all campuses. He is also advocating for free MetroCards for college students. 

Polack stays informed about city, state, and federal issues, and as a student with two more years until graduation, he has much to gain from being well-versed in such matters. "I want to leave a mark," he said. "The best part of this role is having a direct impact on leadership at various levels." 

In addition to his work on the USS, Polack is also excited about a recent development in his Communications Technology major which, he said, was recently designated as a STEM program. This achievement is a source of pride for Polack, who is eager to see even more recognition and support for students in the program. 

To learn more about Akkeem, visit this “CUNY Weekly” edition and scroll down: She Sees the Good in Venom.